While Lampasas may not be classified as a large urban city, it is classified as a community in which to raise a family. There is no question that Lampasas is a growing community.

One thing that is not growing, however, is our restaurant business. It is very sad to hear that the city is quick to approve a liquor store but will reject a restaurant coming to town.

The city can say what it wants about demand, population, economy, income of families, support from the community to keep doors open. I say they are hiding behind the small truth that Lampasas is growing and needs more businesses. It's almost as if they are trying their best to keep us a one-horse town.

There is no doubt we have all seen our fair share of fly-by-night restaurants trying to plant their feet. They come into town, and you load up the family to grab a bite to eat, only to find out the restaurant has closed. Is there a secret restaurant closing brotherhood hiding in the midst of the community?

I, like many others, wonder what's going on with this problem. If I traveled about 35 minutes southwest, I can tickle my taste buds with all sorts of tantalizing choices. Sure, our neighboring town may have more income within its county lines, but it's not an excuse for stepping out of our comfort zone and branching out a little. People need to eat, right?

I will say that we do have one of the best places to eat in town, but why not two or three? We also have our fair share of fast-food diners which may end up closing their doors due to the new Lampasas ISD policy of on-campus lunch (that's a whole different story). Bottom line is we need to open our minds to the idea of having new ideas come across the city's table. We owe it to our community members.

Lampasas needs more places for a casual, family, sitdown, dine in, and enjoy life type of restaurant. All in favor, say "Aye."

Wayne Groves